In a historic move set to reshape the landscape of the Academy Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on April 10 that beginning in 2028, there will be a new category dedicated specifically to the exceptional work of stunt performers and coordinators. This new award, titled Achievement in Stunt Design, aims to recognize the significant contributions these talented individuals make to the art of filmmaking.

The announcement, reported by Variety, came through a formal letter issued by Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang. They emphasized the long-standing importance of stunt design in cinema, stating, Since the early days of cinema, stunt design has been an integral part of filmmaking. We are proud to honor the innovative work of these technical and creative artists, and we congratulate them for their commitment and dedication in reaching this momentous occasion. This acknowledgment is a significant leap forward for an industry that has often overlooked the crucial role of stunt professionals.

The specifics concerning the rules and criteria for the new award will not be revealed until 2027, but films released in that year will be eligible for consideration at the Academy Awards in 2028. This timeline is particularly exciting for stunt teams and coordinators who have long awaited formal recognition of their craft.

For years, influential figures within the film industry, such as David Leitch, director of Deadpool 2 and The Fall Guy, have actively advocated for the inclusion of a category specifically for stunt professionals. Alongside Chris OHara, a prominent stunt coordinator and designer from Stunts Unlimited, Leitch has made numerous presentations to the Academy's Board of Governors, highlighting the necessity of recognizing stunt work as a vital component of film production.

In a heartfelt statement to Variety, Leitch remarked, Stunts are essential to every genre of film. [Stunts are] rooted deep in our industrys historyfrom the groundbreaking work of early pioneers like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin, to the inspiring artistry of todays stunt designers, coordinators, performers, and choreographers. Leitch's words encapsulate the pride and respect that stunt professionals deserve within the film community.

He continued to express gratitude for the long journey toward this recognition, saying, This has been a long journey for so many of us. Chris OHara and I have spent years working to bring this moment to life, standing on the shoulders of the stunt professionals whove fought tirelessly for recognition over the decades. We are incredibly grateful. Thank you, Academy. This sentiment reflects a collective sigh of relief and joy among stunt professionals who have been advocating for this change for years.

This announcement marks not only a significant milestone for stunt performers but also continues a trend of evolving recognition at the Academy Awards. In recent years, the Academy has expanded its categories, with the 2024 ceremony set to feature the inaugural Achievement in Casting award, acknowledging the crucial role of casting directors in the filmmaking process.